Replacements

Testing and Engineering

The true strength of the 125-year established Colson brand name is in its quality products. Before any Colson product is marketed, it must undergo a series of form, fit, and function tests.

The durability test determines the operational load capability of the caster while in action. With an applied load, the caster is tested on a turntable or drum machine operating at a running speed between 3 and 12 km/hr. Obstacles are mounted onto the running surface to represent bumps that a caster or wheel might encounter. To pass the test, the caster or wheel must not show any functional impairment.

The rollability test determines the rolling and swivelling performance of the caster or wheel at a specified load capacity. The customer specifies desired values for the rolling and swivel measures, as these are specific to their application. The push force required to start rolling, keep rolling, and to swivel 90 degrees in the direction of travel, is measured with an electronic force gauge.

A static load test determines the minimum load which the caster or wheel can support. After testing, the caster or wheel should show no signs of visual or permanent deformation.

The impact test determines the impact strength of a caster or wheel. The acceptance criterion is that the caster or wheel shows no functional impairments obstructing the performance of the product.
Other tests include the compression set test, wheel footprint test, and tests that determine the specific holding strength of accessories, such as swivel lock, wheel brake, or side lock brake.